Self-reported hormonal changes-associated with fried potato chip consumption among female university students in Saudi Arabia, Makkah: A cross section study

Abstract

Abeer Khalid Abdullah Alansari

Background: Increased consumption of fried potatoes among university female students is obviously noticed in recent years. Objectives: This study aimed to describe the pattern of consumption of potato chips (PC) by the university female students and its effect on their self-reported hormonal reproductive status. Subjects and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on university female students in Home Science Education Department, Umm al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia over a 6-month period starting from January 2018 to July 2018. A self-administered questionnaire was electronically distributed to all the students in the department. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package of Social Science. Significance was considered at p < 0.05. Results: The response rate to the questionnaire was 89%. About 60% of the participants were between 21 and 24 years. Consumption of different types of PC and crisps was confirmed by 182 (92.9%). On average, the consumption was once per day 164 (83.7%). About 78% of them considered PC and crisps tasty. Parents’ education was not correlated to eating more PC and crisps yet older age of the parents’ was. Conclusion: Consumption of PC and crisps is common among the participants females university students during the early reproductive period. This study gives some clues about the association between PC consumption and reproductive hormonal changes like unusual hair appearance. Recommendations: A health-education program to enhance female university students' dietary choices and lifestyle decisions and increasing the availability of healthy foods in the university cafeteria should be considered.